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Aviary plans to breed burrowing owl pair
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The National Aviary in Pittsburgh has debuted a new exhibit to house a unique pair of owls whose populations are declining in the wild.
The burrowing owls, native to the western U.S. and South America, have experienced loss of habitat, and the Aviary aims to create a space that resembles their natural environment and will encourage breeding.
The burrowing owls live in dry, open areas with low vegetation. Rather than perch in trees, they nest in underground burrows. The new exhibit includes an underground burrow with a glass front so visitors can observe the pair.
"We are hopeful the nature of this exhibit case, in that it resembles the owl's native environment, will be conductive to breeding, will provide visitors an understanding of the variety of bird nesting locations, and help visitors understand the impacts that habitat loss have on variety of animals," director of animal programs Steve Sarro said in a news release.
These owls are part of the aviary's plan to ensure species' viability.
The National Aviary at Allegheny Common West, 700 Arch St., houses more than 600 birds of over 200 different species, many rare or endangered, according to its website.
First Published June 22, 2012 12:00 am
